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You can find spark plugs in most vehicles on the road today, yet very few people ever think about them as an integral part of their vehicle's engine. Spark plugs can make a difference between arriving at your destination and breaking down, so it's essential to understand what they are, how long they last, and when to change them. Here's all you need to know about why spark plugs are important. How long do Spark Plugs last? Most spark plugs will last around 100,000 miles, depending on your vehicle's manufacturer, which is why many people don't think about them during their lifetime. If you notice slow acceleration, poor fuel economy, a misfiring engine, rough idling, or difficulty starting your vehicle, you may need to replace your spark plugs. Have your local mechanic look at your vehicle to determine if your spark plugs are acting up. Spark plugs can go bad from contamination, combustion, and overheating, resulting in an inability to spark the fuel and air mixture or transfer the heat away from the combustion chamber. Over time, the gap between the electrodes on your spark plugs will widen, making the spark jump across a broader distance to ignite the fuel and air mixture for combustion. This widening gap between electrodes can lead to erratic or irregular combustion. What Are Spark Plugs? A spark plug ignites the fuel and air mixture in your vehicle's combustion chamber to provide enough power to the engine to start your vehicle. Spark plugs do not sustain any power once they are used to start the engine and work to transmit heat away from the combustion chamber. Without an initial spark from your spark plugs, your vehicle won't go very far. Manufacturers make spark plugs from durable materials that can withstand millions of explosions before they wear out and need to be replaced. When you turn your key in the ignition or push-start your engine, the starter motor cranks the engine. The battery then sends electricity to an induction coil on your vehicle's combustion engine to transform the 12 volts from your battery to as many as 45,000 volts before giving that energy to the spark plugs. This ignites the fuel and air mixture inside the combustion chamber and generates a small, controlled explosion in the gap between the electrodes of the spark plug. How Can You Tell if a Spark Plug Is Bad? Spark plugs start your vehicle, so the signs and symptoms of a bad spark plug can be relatively evident when your vehicle just won't start. However, there are several common symptoms of bad spark plugs that you may start to notice before they fail to start your engine altogether. These symptoms include the following: Knocking, pinging, or rattling noises. Unusual noises may come from your engine if your spark plugs misfire. When the combustion and pistons don't work properly, a spark plug firing at the wrong time can cause knocking, pinging, or rattling noises due to the pistons' high velocity. Poor fuel economy. Many things can cause your vehicle to experience a drop in fuel economy, from tire pressure to tire tread. Faulty spark plugs can also cause your vehicle to waste fuel because its engine isn't receiving the spark needed at the right time. Hard vehicle start. Your vehicle may have trouble starting or feel jerky and disjointed because the spark plugs are misfiring or not working correctly, causing erratic performance. Reduced performance. Spark plugs are constantly working on transferring heat from the combustion chamber, even when changing gears or accelerating. If your spark plugs aren’t working at 100% capacity, you'll notice a reduction in your vehicle's overall performance. Any of these symptoms can mean that your spark plugs are on their way out, so you should make an appointment with a mechanic or service specialist, such as the trained professionals at Meadowland of Carmel. Our certified technicians can diagnose and treat your vehicle's symptoms, including spark plugs or other issues. We offer free estimates and service hours on Saturdays for your convenience. If you're the DIY type, we can order new parts, including spark plugs to ensure you get the best parts for your vehicle. How Often Should You Change Your Spark Plugs? Even if you're not having issues with your spark plugs, most vehicle manufacturers suggest you change them every 100,000 miles to keep everything working as smoothly as possible. However, the longevity of your spark plugs depends on many factors, including the make, model, and year of your vehicle, the engine, condition, and spark plug type. Consult your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific recommendation on spark plug replacement. Can You Use Any Spark Plug in Your Vehicle? While spark plugs work the same in most vehicles, it's essential to know that there are various types. Spark plug types include: Standard Spark Plugs Standard spark plugs are solid copper with a nickel alloy central electrode. With the largest diameter of all spark plugs, a standard spark plug requires more voltage to generate a current. While it has high conductivity, the nickel alloy part isn't as durable, so these spark plugs tend to wear out quickly. Platinum Spark Plugs Platinum spark plugs are also solid copper, but with a platinum disc welded to the tip of the central electrode that provides more durability. You can purchase a single- or double-platinum spark plug. Both generate more heat that helps prevent fouling and deposit buildup compared to the standard spark plug. Iridium Spark Plugs The most expensive and longest-lasting spark plug is an iridium spark plug with a smaller central electrode and fine wire center used to generate current faster. This spark plug provides better power, which translates into better engine performance. If you're experiencing bad spark plug symptoms, don't wait to bring your vehicle in to have it looked at and repaired. Our service team at Meadowland of Carmel would be happy to service your spark plugs and other vehicle needs. You can find us at 1952 U.S. Highway 6 in Carmel from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and closing at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. To make an appointment today, call us at 845-842-7355, or schedule your service appointment online. Photo Credit: Image via Pixabay

Are you looking for a steakhouse in the Carmel, New York area? This quaint little hamlet sits at the southern end of Putnam County, about 50 miles, or less than two hours’ drive, from New York City, with a food scene that has plenty to offer. You’ll find anything you could want, including rustic inns for fine-dining experiences, farmhouse restaurants serving the best of local products, and classic grills serving steak and seafood to discerning connoisseurs. Here are some of the best places to find a steak in Carmel, New York. McCarthy’s Grill House McCarthy’s Grill House is an Irish restaurant and bar located at 374 Route 52 in the middle of Carmel. It’s open from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday. It also provides local catering in-house, at your home, or at a location of your choice. McCarthy’s menu offers a large selection of burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Dinner entrees include chicken dishes, seafood, and classics such as Shepard’s Pie and Bangers and Mash. Their 10-ounce or 16-ounce steaks include NY strip steak, teriyaki steak, bacon-bleu steak, and Cajun steak. Char Steakhouse and Bar The Char Steakhouse and Bar is an upscale venue just 20 minutes from Carmel in nearby Mahopac at 151 Bryant Pond Road. It’s open every day except Monday and serves brunch on Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you go for Char’s steak menu, you can create your perfect meal by choosing your cut from options that include a 14-ounce boneless NY strip, a 10-ounce filet mignon, or an 18-ounce Frenched bone-in rib eye. Next, you choose a signature sauce, a starch side, such as roasted potatoes or truffle mac and cheese, and a vegetable side, such as asparagus or spinach. Clock Tower Grill A short drive from Carmel in Brewster, New York, you’ll find the Clock Tower Grill at 512 Clock Tower Drive. This chef-owned kitchen and bar is dedicated to providing food made from healthy ingredients sourced as locally and sustainably as possible. It even has its own farm that raises Highland beef cows and other livestock for a complete farm-to-table experience. It opens for dinner at 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Clock Tower Grill’s steak offerings include a NY strip steak with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Other mains include braised short ribs and 1/2 chicken with grits and greens. Tilly’s Table at Tilly Foster Farm Another farm-to-table restaurant, Tilly’s Table, is located on Tilly Foster Farm at 100 NY-312 in Brewster. This beautiful venue also plays host to weddings, bridal and baby showers, corporate events, live entertainment, and more. The restaurant opens for dinner at 5 p.m Wednesday through Sunday, with Sunday brunch served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. From the dinner menu, try Tilly’s Surf and Turf with an 8-ounce filet and a 6-ounce lobster tail. Or go for the house special NY strip 12-ounce prime cut. From the brunch menu, try the steak and eggs made your way. Putnam Steakhouse Check out the Putnam Steakhouse if you’re looking for an elegant yet rustic dinner location that also has a bar and a live music stage. This American steak and seafood restaurant is located at 983 US Route 6 in Mahopac and is open Wednesday through Monday, with dinner service starting at 4 p.m. Its certified Angus beef steaks range from an 8-ounce grilled filet mignon to a 20-ounce T-bone steak. Are you bringing company? Try the 32-ounce porterhouse steak for two. Choose from bearnaise sauce, chimichurri, or a red wine sauce to go with your steak. Northwood Inn The Northwood Inn is located at 14 Frances Kiernan Place in the Carmel area. It serves both traditional Polish dishes, such as golabki and pierogi, and American burgers. Enjoy the cozy, family-friendly restaurant setting with an indoor fireplace and outdoor beer garden. The menu offers a few steak options along with chops, cutlets, and a range of other items. The steaks include a 16-ounce char-grilled boneless rib-eye steak and a 10-ounce flat iron steak that is spiced and served with sauteed onions; both come with potatoes and a vegetable medley. The Carriage House Restaurant and Tavern The Carriage House Restaurant and Tavern have two locations, one in Patterson and one in Mahopac at 887 US-6, with the latter being slightly closer to Carmel at a quick 10-minute drive. Relax in the cozy, country-style interior with wooden floors, dark log walls, and a fireplace centerpiece. From the entrees menu, you have a choice of several steaks, including the skirt steak in a wild mushroom and red wine reduction with a choice of sides. Or you could try a peppercorn-crusted filet mignon with a peppercorn cream sauce and sides or the cowboy steak with bacon and gorgonzola butter. My Cousin’s My Cousin’s is a recent addition to the Carmel-area food scene that opened in 2021 at 954 Route 6 in Mahopac. It’s open from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Come here to enjoy elevated American cuisine accompanied by craft beers, elegant cocktails, or fine wines — it’s a true foodies’ delight. The menu offers charcuterie and cheese boards, seafood selections, and even a rack of lamb. Your steak options are either a filet mignon or a New York strip cooked to temperature with a choice of sides. There are a lot of great restaurants where you can get a steak in the Carmel area, whether you’re looking for a farm-to-table experience to celebrate a special occasion or a family-friendly restaurant where you can take the kids. Has this list whetted your appetite for a juicy steak? Which restaurant in the Carmel area are you planning to try first? At Meadowland of Carmel, we’d love to hear if you’ve tried the steaks at any of the places on our list, so drop us a line and tell us what you think. Photo Credit: steak by stu_spivack is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Team sports have been enjoyed for centuries by participants and spectators alike. This list is for you if you count yourself among the ranks of sports enthusiasts. The town of Carmel, New York, and the wider Putnam County area are home to several high school and amateur sports teams that you should check out if you're a sports fan. Whether you prefer classic American high school football, junior ice hockey, soccer, baseball, or lacrosse, you can find a game to attend close by. Here are a few Carmel and Putnam County teams that we think you'll enjoy supporting. Carmel Rams High School Football If football is your game, then you'll want to know who the local high school team is. Lucky for you, it’s a good one — perhaps the best in the state as of 2021. The Carmel Rams are Carmel's high school football team and have been making a name for themselves recently by winning last year's state championship for the first time. It’s the first team from Putnam County to earn this title. With a winning score of 42-12 against their opponent, this will be the team to watch in the 2022 high school football season. Lacrosse Teams Lacrosse is a uniquely North American team sport, first played by the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas in parts of New York and Canada, possibly as far back as the 12th century. It involves sticks with a net or basket that is used to catch, pass, and toss a ball between teammates and into the goal nets of the opposing team on the field. Though some of the rules have changed and become standardized over the years, lacrosse is still played in schools across the USA, and there are lacrosse leagues and fans worldwide. Putnam Valley Lacrosse Club If you have any young lacrosse fans in your family, you'll want to get them involved in the Putnam Valley Lacrosse Club. This club has teams for boys and girls from kindergarten through eighth grade and works as a feeder program to the Putnam Valley High School, a varsity lacrosse team for boys. Team sports, such as lacrosse, are a great way for kids to make friends, build skills, and increase confidence. As an additional benefit, your kids will be taking part in a sport with a proud history that goes back nearly a thousand years. Mahopac Water Panthers The Mahopac Water Panthers is a new senior men's box lacrosse team based in Mahopac, just 15 minutes south of Carmel. Box lacrosse is a version of the game played indoors, often on a hockey rink covered with turf. If you're a fan of box lacrosse or just a sports fan who enjoys a good game played by dedicated athletes, you'll want to check out this team, which won its first home game in June 2022. The Mahopac Water Panthers will be returning for the fall season, so you can go watch a game to see what they can do. Hockey Teams Hockey has an interesting history. Its origins are suspected to be rooted in the Scottish game of curling combined with elements of Irish hurling, field hockey, and a game played by the Indigenous Peoples of Nova Scotia, Canada. It is one of the most popular team sports in Canada and the USA and is also played in the Olympics and around the world, with ice hockey particularly popular in the colder Nordic countries. Brewster Ice Area, just down the road from Carmel, is home to several local teams, including the Junior Rangers teams for boys and girls, the Lady Bulldogs, and the Westchester Express. New York Apple Core Junior Hockey If you're looking for a great team to support at the Brewster Ice Arena, then check out the New York Apple Core junior hockey team. A member of the Eastern Hockey League, this is a top-level junior team made up of players with the potential to go on to play for the area's top colleges and universities. Many players from this team have gone on to play in the American Collegiate Hockey Association programs, and some are now professional hockey players. If you love hockey, this is your chance to see a great team in action. Soccer Soccer is one of the most popular team sports in the world, with professional and pickup teams playing just about everywhere, including Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. People have been kicking around balls made from animal hides for at least a couple of thousand years, but it was the British that formalized the game and established the rules we know today. From its humble origins, soccer has grown to have the World Cup, where national teams play to be the best in the world, and the winners are cheered on by millions of passionate fans. Carmel United Soccer Club The Carmel United Soccer Club is a volunteer, nonprofit organization that supports local soccer through its programs within the Carmel school system. It was founded over forty years ago in 1980 and offered recreational programs for kids ages 3 to 13. For more serious players ready for their next step, there’s a travel program for kids ages 8 up to twelfth grade, which competes in the East Hudson Youth Soccer League. The Carmel United Academy offers participants additional training by the area's top coaches to help with players’ skills and development. While Carmel doesn't have the major sports teams, you’d find in a big city, finding a local team that you can support and be proud of in our community is still a lot of fun. Sports have always been a great way to bring people together, and this can be even more personal in a smaller setting where the players are your friends and neighbors. We love our local teams at Meadowland of Carmel and hope you enjoyed reading about them. Contact us if there's a great local team you want us to know about.

With its ruggedly attractive design, off-road capabilities, and a wealth of amazing features, the Grand Cherokee is one of the popular choices for the mid-size SUV segment. For the 2023 model year, the Jeep Grand Cherokee comes loaded with great technology inside and out. Here's a look at some of the special features of the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee: A Classy Yet Comfortable Interior The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a luxurious interior. It has a multicolor ambient LED lighting system allows you to change the interior glow to suit your mood. This adds an aura of sophistication to your journey. The vehicle also offers a roomy cabin with comfortable seats equipped with cooling and heating functions and back and memory massagers. The second and third-row seats can also be folded, offering an impressive 84.6 cubic feet of cargo space. This is perfect for hauling large home improvement supplies or all of the kids' stuff. Advanced Connectivity and Infotainment System The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee features a Uconnect 5 infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and six-speaker stereo on its base setup. The infotainment system comes with voice recognition for ease of use when driving. You can add a screen for your front-seat passenger. This allows them to enter information into the navigation system or adjust audio settings while they stay focused on the road. There are also several connectivity options to link your devices with the vehicle's infotainment system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come standard to ensure smartphone compatibility. If you want to avoid using one of the USB ports, you can upgrade to wireless versions of those connectivity features. A Wi-Fi hotspot and Bluetooth connectivity are standard as well. Moreover, you can choose from several optional upgrades to your entertainment tech. For example, you can add a rear-seat infotainment system to give your second-row passengers their own screens to control the video and audio settings. You can also add a 10.1-inch touchscreen in the front row and set up a premium 19-speaker stereo. A wireless device charging and navigation system are two further additional upgrades. Reassuring Safety Features Nothing is more important than keeping your family safe. Hence, you'll be delighted to know that the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee comes with a wide range of standard safety features, including: Active driving assist: This feature helps keep you on the right path when driving on a highway. It uses sensors and radars that allow the vehicle to make subtle adjustments to help you remain a set distance from the car directly ahead and keep you in the center of your lane. Active lane management: This measures your car's position within lane boundaries. If you unintentionally drift out of your travel lane, the system can alert you and correct the car back to its lane. The system also provides you with steering correction to help you prevent a collision with surrounding cars in your blind spots. Adaptive cruise control: This safety feature automatically adjusts your driving speed so you can maintain a pre-selected distance from the vehicle ahead. Collision warning: The vehicle also comes with a full-speed forward collision warning with pedestrian/cyclist detection and active braking. This feature uses sensors at the front of the car and can alert you when there's an unseen obstacle or a potential frontal impact. If you don't respond, the vehicle can automatically engage the brakes. Drowsy driver detection: This feature tracks driver interaction and vehicle movement to detect drowsiness patterns. If detected, the system automatically sends you a visual and audio signal to take precautions. S urround-view parking camera: This safety feature displays an aerial view of the vehicle on its Uconnect touch screen so you can confidently maneuver into a parking spot. Excellent Power and Performance The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee features an 8-speed automatic transmission with impressive efficiency, quick acceleration, and smooth shifting. It also has three engine options: V-6, V-8, and a plug-in hybrid. The 3.6-liter V-6 gas engine generates 290 horsepower and 257 pound-feet of torque, while the larger 5.7-liter V-8 engine produces 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. If you're looking for more muscle, opt for the Hemi V-8 or the plug-in hybrid, which boosts torque, power, and towing capability. Rear-wheel drive is standard in the 2023 Grand Cherokee, but you can upgrade to a four-wheel drive if you love to go off-roading. An Attractive, Sleek Exterior The new Jeep Grand Cherokee has a rugged yet upscale look with large fender flares, a seven-slotted grille, and slim headlights. The vehicle's rear end comes with dual exhaust outlets, a chunky rear bumper, and rounded taillights. Here are other features that make the exterior of the vehicle look attractive: LED lighting: The premium LED lighting gives the new Grand Cherokee an extra-special glow. LED taillamps, headlamps, and available fog lamps make for an impressive view whether you're outside or inside the vehicle. 21-inch wheels: The 21-inch polished aluminum wheels give the Grand Cherokee sophistication and support on both rugged trails and city streets. Black roof: The available black roof creates a two-toned look, separating the Grand Cherokee from the crowd. Advanced Off-Roading Features Jeep has always been associated with impressive off-road capabilities, and the 2023 Grand Cherokee lives up to its name. As a sport-utility vehicle, the Grand Cherokee boasts 8.4 inches of ground clearance, and it comes standard with the Selec-Terrain feature and Quadra-Trac II 4WD system for better performance in challenging conditions. Now that you know a little about the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee, we hope that you're ready to get behind the wheel of this amazing mid-sized SUV. Contact our Jeep experts here at Meadowland of Carmel if you want to arrange a test drive or apply for financing. We can help you find the Jeep model and financing option that suits your lifestyle and budget. Contact us by phone at 845-704-4245 or through our contact form, or come and visit us at our convenient location in Carmel, New York. Photo Credits: Image by Prateek Katyal is licensed with Unsplash License

The all-new 2022 Jeep Wagoneer line is available in Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer models. A new addition to the Jeep model line, both SUVs are stylish, luxurious, and ideal for long trips or commuting, but they have some key differences. Here's some more information about the Wagoneer line and the features of the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. The Jeep Wagoneer Model Line The 2022 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer have boxy, sleek profiles, turn signals for the side mirrors, and seven-slot grilles with "WAGONEER" lettering above them. Thin LED taillights stretch across the backs of both vehicles, with "WAGONEER" or "GRAND WAGONEER" lettering above them. They also have slightly smaller lower grilles and front skid plates. The interiors have refined looks, and they use high-quality materials. You can add 20- or 22-inch wheels, and Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, or Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive systems are available. The 2023 Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer line will have long-wheelbase options that add 12 inches for extra cargo space. These new models are called the Wagoneer L and the Grand Wagoneer L. The 2022 Jeep Wagoneer With the Wagoneer, you'll get a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that produces 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque. This vehicle can go 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway and uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2022 Wagoneer comes in Series I, Series II, and Series III trim levels. Series I The exterior of the base Series I has LED fog lights and daytime running lights, 18-inch wheels, a power liftgate, puddle lights that activate automatically, heated side mirrors, and roof rails. The Wagoneer can carry eight people, and the dual-zone climate system has controls in the front and rear. It's also voice-activated. Other standard features include heated and ventilated front seats, 116.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the second- and third-row seats folded, ambient lighting, Nappa leather seats, a 10.1-inch touch screen, and an eight-way driver's seat with memory settings. You'll also get SiriusXM satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, a heated steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and a 10-speaker audio system with voice activation and audio controls for the rear seats. Navigation, speed-sensitive volume controls, blind spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, forward collision mitigation, and a security system with an engine immobilizer are also included. Series II With the Series II, the heated side mirrors also have turn signals, memory settings, and auto-dimming capabilities. Its fog lights have cornering capabilities. The Series II comes with rain-sensing windshield wipers, a rear wiper and washer, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and active grille shutters. It also has a universal garage door opener and power-adjustable pedals. Series III The Series III includes 20-inch wheels, keyless entry, remote start, heated rear seats, and cruise control with stop-and-go capabilities. You can add 22-inch wheels, a three-pane panoramic sunroof, automatic high beams, power running boards, and a removable rear tow hook. You can also choose a three-zone climate system with controls in all three rows. The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer The 2022 Grand Wagoneer is even bigger and more luxurious than the Wagoneer and can carry seven people. It received the 2022 WARDS 10 Best Interiors and User Experience award, and it provides an extremely comfortable ride. This vehicle has 28.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and 94.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The Grand Wagoneer L has 44.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. The 6.4-liter V-8 engine offers 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, and it has an eight-speed automatic transmission. It can tow up to 8,260 pounds and carry up to 1,450 pounds. The Grand Wagoneer can also travel 13 mpg in urban areas and 18 mpg on larger roads. You can also choose a 3.0-liter, turbocharged, six-cylinder engine with stop-and-start capabilities. It can tow up to 9,750 pounds, giving 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. It can go 14 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, and premium fuel is recommended for both motors. Series I, Series II, Obsidian, and Series III trim levels are available. Series I The Series I comes with a 19-speaker audio system, automatic high beams, fog lights with cornering capabilities, and heated, power-folding, auto-dimming side mirrors with memory settings and turn signals. Other standard features include rain-sensing windshield wipers, all-season tires, active grille shutters, power running boards, and 20-inch wheels. You'll also get 14-way power front seats with massage capabilities and heated front and rear seats. A 10.25-inch touch screen gives you precise control over the seats, and easy articulation lets you flip it upward to reveal the USB ports, storage compartment, and wireless charger. An acoustic windshield, a hands-free power liftgate, tinted windows, a 12.3-inch digital information cluster, a 12-inch touch screen, and a windshield wiper de-icer are also standard. The sunroof covers the first and second rows. You can add Amazon Fire TV and a 10.1-inch rear entertainment screen. Series II The Series II has a four-wheel drive, 22-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, memory settings for the driver and front passenger seats, and simulated suede headliners. You can add a removable rear tow hook and a three-pane panoramic sunroof. Like the Obsidian, the only exterior color available is Diamond Black Crystal Pearl. Obsidian The Grand Wagoneer Obsidian has a black exterior and interior accents and a black roof for a sleek look. It comes with 23 speakers, and a McIntosh MX1375 Reference Entertainment System controls them. Series III With the Series III, you can choose a golden interior color called Tupelo, and natural walnut interior accents are standard. A rear seat monitoring camera lets you see what passengers are doing in the rear seats without turning around. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer have luxurious, high-tech features and attractive exteriors. While the Wagoneer can transport more people and cargo, the Grand Wagoneer lets you and your passengers indulge in the height of luxury. Features like massaging seats, plentiful screens, and an excellent sound system are sure to impress passengers who ride in this SUV. To learn more about the Wagoneer and the Grand Wagoneer, contact us at Meadowland of Carmel. Photo Credit: Jeep Grand Wagoneer (AJM CCUSA) by AJM STUDIOS is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Ram is a top name among truck manufacturers. The 2022 Ram 1500 starts off the lineup with many engine options, four-door choices, and a litany of standard features. If you need more horsepower, you can opt for the heavy-duty options of the 2500 or the 3500. If you're looking for a hard-working vehicle that will get you, your gear, and equipment to the job site, or a pickup to haul a camper and toys for your weekend adventures, you're sure to find what you're looking for among the 2022 Ram pickup line. The Ram truck lineup provides you with excellent towing capabilities and advanced technology. Below is further information on towing capacity as it pertains specifically to the Ram line and some details on calculating towing capacity. There are also some examples of what you can tow and haul. Ram Truck Overview No matter your model, you'll find excellent towing and hauling capabilities with Ram trucks that will get the job done, whether on the road or off. The 2022 Ram 1500 is available in seven trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Rebel, Laramie, Longhorn, Limited, and TRX. 2500 has seven trims, but they differ a bit: Tradesman, Big Horn, Lone Star, Power Wagon, Laramie, Limited Longhorn, and Limited. Finally, the 3500 has five trims: Tradesman, Big Horn, Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited. The engine is the most critical component regarding towing and payload maximum capacities. Depending on the trim, there are four engines to choose from for 1500. All four are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The first engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 fitted with Ram's eTorque system putting out 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque. Next, the popular 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine churns out 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Another option is the 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine that generates 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. Lastly, a powerful 6.2-liter V-8 supercharged engine pushes out an astonishing 702 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque exclusive for the TRX. Three engines are available for the 2022 Ram 2500 and 3500. The first is a 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 with 410 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. The next option is a 6.7-liter turbocharged six-cylinder that garners 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. A Cummins Turbo Diesel engine makes 420 horsepower and an exceptional 1,075 lb-ft of torque. Ram Towing Technology Ram gives you the power to haul and tow what you need and adds technology to improve the towing experience. First up is the air suspension system, which makes hooking up a trailer of any type easy — whether it's to a gooseneck, fifth wheel, or conventional — thanks to the bed-lowering capabilities. In addition, the multifunction tailgate has 60/40 split swing-away doors that give easy access to the cargo in the bed, even if you have hitched up a trailer. Another helpful feature is the cargo view and backup cameras, helping you line up your trailer to hitch it up. Plus, there is the 360-degree surround view camera and trailer camera prep, which includes up to two cameras you can place on or in your trailer to give a complete view of everything surrounding your truck. Trailer tow mirrors are mounted on arms that you can adjust to provide a wider view, along with spotter lamps to help you see better. This provides further assistance via the optional reverse guidance with a split-screen view that genuinely gives you a complete look while backing up your trailer. The available blind spot monitoring system with rear cross path and trailer detection scans the blind spots both behind and beside the vehicle, automatically considering the trailer's length. In addition, the trailer reverse steering control helps you easily control your trailer in reverse with a simple knob while the system takes over the steering wheel. Finally, some features further assist towing and operating in general via the electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, electronic brake controller, diesel exhaust brake system, electronic range select, trailer tire pressure monitoring, and trailer sway control. General Towing Capacity You may be wondering what the 2022 Ram can tow. The 2022 Ram 1500 consists of a 98% high-strength steel frame that adds durability and stiffness, providing you with a maximum towing capacity of up to 12,750 pounds and a maximum payload of up to 2,300 pounds. If you need more power, moving up to the Ram 2500 increases the maximum payload capacity to 4,010 pounds and the maximum towing capacity of 20,000 pounds, thanks to the 6.2-liter HEMI V-8 engine. Finally, the 3500 brings the muscle even more with a maximum payload capacity of up to 7.680 pounds and the best-in-class available diesel towing capacity of an impressive 37,090 pounds. For reference, here are some items and their weights to help you figure out what Ram you need: Fishing Boat: These will check in up to 2,500 pounds. Car Dolly: A car dolly loaded with a vehicle weighs between 3,000 and 5,000 pounds. Campers: If you want to head out and enjoy the great outdoors, 1500 is sufficient for nearly every type of camper up to some fifth wheels. For the heaviest and largest campers and toy haulers, you'll want to move up to 2500. Work equipment: This can include tractors, backhoes, loaders, etc. These weights can vary greatly, but a full-size tractor weighs about 15,000 pounds. Whatever 2022 Ram you decide will fit your purposes, whether 1500, 2500, or 3500, make sure to get in touch with the team at Meadowland of Carmel. Our sales team can answer any questions, tour our showroom, or set you up for a test drive in any Ram truck or other model we have available. We're conveniently located at 1952 U.S. Highway 6 in Carmel, New York. Our sales team is ready to serve you from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, closing at 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Call us at 845-704-4245 or complete our convenient and secure online form to get started. Photo Credits: Images used via permission from Ram.com

Famous worldwide for its long-standing pizza tradition, New York is home to some of the best pizza shops and restaurants around. Even outside the city, the state's legacy of pizza excellence endures. Locals to Carmel, New York, as well as those just driving through, can expect to find a great slice of pizza here in town. Whether you're craving a greasy cheese slice on the go or want an authentic, Italian sit-down experience, Carmel has some excellent establishments to choose from. Here's a closer look at some of our top pizza favorites around town: Luigi's Famiglia Cucina A neighborhood favorite, Luigi's Famiglia Cucina is a must-visit pizza destination in Carmel Hamlet. We especially love their Diavolo Pizza, which they top with fresh mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, basil, and spicy honey. It's a dish you'll go back to again and again. Luigi's is a family-owned and operated Italian kitchen with a brick oven they use to make the most authentic tasting dishes. While their pizza is some of the best around, the restaurant is also famous for its pasta and hearty Italian fare. There's something for everyone to love on their menu. Visit Luigi's for a sit-down experience, order delivery for added convenience, or get takeout to bring the food home yourself. Their delivery hours are 11 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. on Sunday. Those wanting takeout or a dine-in experience can benefit from slightly extended hours. The restaurant offers these services from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Prato Trattoria Another Carmel favorite is Prato Trattoria. They make their hand-stretched pizzas fresh daily using the highest-quality ingredients available. They offer both inventive, gourmet pizza options along with familiar classics, so everyone can find a dish they love. Be sure to try the Vodka Ravioli Pizza, a customer favorite and a unique dish you won’t be able to get anywhere else. The pizza comes ringed in Prato Trattoria’s famous and delicious garlic knots. Other menu favorites include their fresh baked calzones and hearty pastas. At Prato Trattoria, you can taste the long-standing family tradition. The Spaccarelli family owns the restaurant and incorporates their Italian heritage into their delicious Sicilian pies and menu options. The restaurant still uses recipes passed down from Grandma Lucy, and everything comes homemade, from their artisan breads to their creamy mozzarella. Be sure to save room for dessert. Local menu favorites include the tiramisu and Prato Trattoria’s sumptuous gelato. You can visit the restaurant from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Gappy’s Pizza A local favorite since opening in 2002, Gappy’s Pizza is famous for its humongous pizza slices and mouth-watering sauces. The restaurant’s owner, George Papazian, infuses all the establishment’s dishes with an authentic flair and unique spin. Gappy’s also stays committed to affordability, and restaurant-goers can get a memorable meal without breaking the bank. That, combined with their incredible food and top-tier service, make dining experiences at Gappy’s some of the best in Carmel. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a weekday regular, they’ll treat you like family. Their Margherita pizza is a must-have for pizza lovers, but the restaurant has other great menu options too. Try their chicken wings or mozzarella sticks for further delicious bites. They’re open late on weekends and serve alcohol too, making them the perfect weekend or evening stop. Their hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Carmel Brick Oven Pizza & Cafe Another local favorite is the Carmel Brick Oven Pizza & Cafe. Be sure to check out their buffalo chicken pizza for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The cafe offers pickup and delivery, so getting pizza is both easy and convenient. With lots of yummy pie choices, appetizers, and sandwiches, there’s something on the menu for everyone to love. Known for their fast and friendly service, you can always count on a great experience at this local favorite. The cafe is open for dine-in, takeout, and delivery from 11 a.m. to 8:30 pm Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. Greek Village For a slightly different but equally delicious culinary experience, check out Carmel’s Greek Village Restaurant. This authentic Greek spot serves lots of yummy favorites, including Greek pizza topped with unique additions like eggplant, roasted gyro meat, fresh peppers, and olives. The restaurant also features many noteworthy Greek dishes. Try their lamb platter alongside the pizza to see some of what Greek Village is all about. Other menu favorites include their Belgian Waffle, a breakfast staple that’s sure to satisfy morning-time cravings. Greek Village is open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday. They’re also open for convenient carry out, and you can order online for fast and simple pickup options. Their accessible location close to the New York Sports Club makes them easy to find and visit. When it comes to pizza, Carmel knows how to do it right. Whether you like authentic Italian style, like they serve at Luigi’s, or the more unique pizza offerings, like those at Greek Village, we think there’s something for everyone to love. Do you have a favorite pizza place we forgot to mention on our list? Let us know. We’d love to hear about it. We’re committed to offering the best local advice to visitors and long-time residents alike. And, of course, we’d never turn down an opportunity to try more of Carmel’s local flavors and pizza offerings.

There's nothing like cheering for your favorite team in the middle of a pub or bar, especially regarding the World Cup. That's why we've created this helpful list of the best places to watch the World Cup in the Carmel, New York, area, so you can spend more time celebrating and less time searching. Keep reading to learn about seven of the best places in Carmel to watch the World Cup. McCarthy's Grill House For a fun pub experience to go along with watching the big game, visit McCarthy's Grill House. To fill your belly while watching the game, you can enjoy something from the daily menu, like jalapeno poppers, stuffed clams, or buffalo shrimp. McCarthy's also has several changing menus, including seasonal soup, seasonal salad, Taco Tuesday, and Sunday night chicken. There's also a gluten-free menu. Even drink choices change, with menus for Bloody Marys, martinis, summertime coolers, and international coffees. You're sure to find something you love while watching the game on the big screens. Location: 374 Route 52, Carmel. Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. Centennial Grille Room If you want to watch the game after a quick round of golf, the Centennial Grille Room is the perfect option for golf and soccer lovers. With several large flat-screen TVs throughout the tavern and plenty of seating for all, you can bring yourself and all your friends along to cheer for your favorite team. Aside from just watching the game, you can enjoy several pub classics and Centennial Grille Room originals, such as the award-winning chili con carne, beer-battered onion rings, or steamed clams. To round out your meal, you can enjoy a Tuscan eggplant panini, a Western grilled chicken sandwich, fish tacos, or a dish of linguini and white clam sauce. Location: 185 John Simpson Road, Carmel. Hours: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week. Scooters Bar & Grill Venture a little east to visit Scooters Bar & Grill where the whole family will enjoy watching the World Cup. With a full-service bar and a relaxing patio, you can enjoy the game with all the comforts of your own backyard patio. You can also rent a private event space if you want to gather all your friends together to watch the game. And what's watching the game without a little snack or drink? Scooters Bar & Grill has a variety of late-night snacks and a full dinner menu to satisfy any craving. With starters like smoked bacon-wrapped shrimp, a shared fried burrata board, or a jumbo soft pretzel that pair well with an eggplant parmesan hero, a smoke beef brisket dip, or a custom mac and cheese dish, you're not walking away from this bar and grill hungry. Location: 507 Danbury Road, New Milford. Hours: 11 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Savor Ristorante & Bar For a more upscale experience to enjoy the game, you can journey over to Savor Ristorante & Bar where you can get classic Italian fare while watching the World Cup. With an outdoor patio and cozy bar atmosphere, you can enjoy your food, drinks, and game in style. From the tapas and bar menu, you can devour bacon-wrapped stuffed dates, truffle arancini, truffle parmesan fries, cheesy garlic bread, mini crab cakes, and chicken caprese sliders. Before visiting this little slice of Italy, it's a good idea to make a reservation for yourself and your friends. Location: 18 Clark Place, Mahopac. Hours: Noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Monday, noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Lakeside Grille With stunning lake views, Lakeside Grille is a family-owned restaurant where you can enjoy a meal or watch your favorite game. If you want a taste of something new while absorbed in the big-screen TV, you can order one of the house's favorite drinks like Berry Kiss, Ruby Red, Jack Mule's, or Spiked Strawberry Lemonade. There are also several food options that range from appetizers to wraps all the way to Lakeside specialties. Some popular menu items include famous, fabulous wings, crispy calamari, supreme nachos, a spicy chicken wrap, a flounder fillet sandwich, and penne a la vodka. Location: 156 E. Lake Blvd., Mahopac. Hours: 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week. Tilly's Table With a unique farm-to-table experience, Tilly's Table offers good eats, live entertainment, and a great space to watch the game. With indoor and outdoor dining options and a variety of events throughout the year, you can make watching the game a memorable experience at the Tilly Foster Farm. There are so many options to munch on while rooting for your team, including Prince Edward Island mussels, Tilly's charcuterie board, a giant hot pretzel, Tilly's burger, braised short rib, rosemary roasted chicken, and herb-and-wild-mushroom-crusted beef tenderloin. Location: 100 NY-312, Brewster. Hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Northwood Inn Offering a separate bar and lounge area, Northwood Inn is a perfect spot to enjoy the game while also exploring tasty American and Polish-inspired dishes. You can also take a step outside and enjoy the outdoor patio that connects to the relaxing garden. With menu options like sirloin carpaccio, potato pancakes and mushroom gravy, a kielbasa burger, and a hot Polish platter, you're sure to find something new to try here. Location: 14 Frances Kiernan Place, Carmel Hamlet. Hours: Noon to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. So, which pub or restaurant are you going to visit for the next World Cup? Do you have another go-to spot in Carmel that isn't on our list? If so, feel free to contact us, and we'll add it to the list. If you need a ride to get you to your next favorite World Cup spot, stop by Meadowland of Carmel today. One of our friendly sales team members will happily get you driving away in the car of your dreams. Photo Credits: FIFA World Cup by GPA Photo Archive is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Your brakes may be the most critical safety system in your entire vehicle. Vehicle braking systems use a complex network of mechanical and hydraulic parts to slow and stop your car. You need to slow down gradually in some situations but will require hard braking in others. Your brakes must function properly to keep you and your passengers safe. To ensure your brakes perform, we recommend you have them serviced regularly. So, we had our brake system experts dig into this topic to explain what services your brakes need and how often they need them. What is a standard brake service? IROC Brake Upgrade by Nick Ares is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0 At Meadowland of Carmel, our service center technicians receive ongoing training to remain updated on all braking systems' latest parts and repair practices. They will inspect your entire brake system when you bring your vehicle in for a brake service and can quickly diagnose and fix any issues you might have with your brakes. Your technician will inspect the brake lines for cracks or leaks and review your brake pads to ensure they have the appropriate thickness remaining. The inspection includes a structural integrity check of your discs, rotors, or drums. The technician will check your brake pedal by measuring the distance it travels, which helps to determine system pressure. They'll test your calipers, too, to make sure they clamp your pads onto the discs, rotors, or drums in the correct position and with proper pressure. In addition, our technicians will examine your master cylinder to ensure it operates to vehicle specifications and has no leaks. Finally, they'll check your brake fluid level and test it for moisture and metal content, such as copper. Your brake service might include replacing your brake pads or topping off the brake fluid, as these parts wear the fastest. However, if our technicians find an issue with any part of your car's brake system, they will provide you with a detailed explanation and a cost breakdown of the necessary repairs. You can take advantage of our Express Lane for quick service. Benefits of Regular Brake Service As a critical safety system, your brakes require regular servicing to ensure proper operation. You need to stop, sometimes in emergencies, and you rely on your brakes to do so safely. Brake pads wear out from the friction created during the braking process, eventually exposing metal pins. When these pins contact the discs, rotors, or drums, they start to squeak or squeal. That's the signal you need to change your brake pads. If you ignore this sign, those metal pins eventually score grooves in your discs, rotors, or drums and compromise their integrity. Regular brake system service helps prolong the system's life, avoids more costly repairs, and improves your driving safety. To encourage regular service, we offer a rotating list of service specials. Servicing your brake system regularly also helps spot other potential issues, such as leaks. Your brake system uses fluid pressure to operate. Too little brake fluid reduces the amount of available pressure and compromises the system's ability to stop the car. Old brake fluid can also damage your vehicle's brake system. Even though the fluid operates in a sealed system, moisture can still seep in over time. Water alone can lead to the corrosion of critical parts, but it is even more damaging if it contains harmful minerals, such as copper. Testing your brake fluid and exchanging it when it gets old helps prolong the other mechanical parts of the system. What are the Different Parts of a Brake? Your brake system uses a complex series of mechanical and hydraulic parts to stop your vehicle. The mechanical element begins when you press down on the brake pedal. This action engages the hydraulic portion, pressurizing the brake fluid in the brake lines. The pressure from the brake fluid then triggers the calipers, which clamp the brake pads onto the rotors, discs, or drums attached to your car's wheels. Gentle pressure allows the wheels to stop spinning slowly. Hard pressure causes the wheels to stop more quickly. Modern vehicles employ an anti-lock braking system known as ABS. With ABS, the pressure on the calipers pulsates rapidly. This rapid action keeps the brakes from locking against the wheels and sending the car into a skid. Your tires' tread provides traction or grip on the road, but when your car skids, you lose that traction. ABS allows your tires to continue to rotate and maintain traction on the road. Common Brake Problems Our technicians have seen it all when it comes to brake issues. The most common is worn-out brake pads. These pads cost very little to replace, and we can do so quickly. Another common problem is low brake fluid. Most drivers don't check their brake fluid regularly, so having a brake inspection by a professional helps prevent the issue. Older vehicles often have cracked or corroded brake lines, which will eventually leak and compromise your stopping ability. Occasionally, a master cylinder failure occurs in older vehicles. The master cylinder provides the pressure required to stop your car. As a result, a failing master cylinder creates a very unsafe situation. Corrosion can compromise your brake system's metal discs, rotors, and drums. In particular, salt on the roads in the winter can have a corrosive impact. Salt works wonders to melt the snow, but it also corrodes the metal parts of your entire vehicle, including your brakes. Other Problems That Stem From Brake Issues One significant problem that stems from brake issues is premature tire wear. For example, if a caliper on one tire clamps down harder than the other, that tire will wear faster. This uneven pressure also creates a pull to one side as you brake. You can manage a safe stop in gentle braking situations, but it can cause an unsafe loss of control in an emergency. Schedule Standard Brake Service Today We hope you found this information helpful. At Meadowland of Carmel, we want your vehicle to operate safely in all aspects, including your brakes. If you have a problem with your vehicle's brakes or can't remember the last time you had them serviced, we recommend you schedule a brake inspection today. In less than an hour, we'll inspect your entire brake system and make the necessary recommendations to return your brakes to the proper specifications.

When the mood strikes, you might crave a craft beer or a microbrew, with great appetizers or food to go along with it. There are many options in the more excellent Carmel, New York, area to get your fix, including high-end comfort food. Our team at Meadowland of Carmel would like to share our top four pubs and breweries in Carmel, New York. Klazy Jax Beer Mug Image via Pixabay Featuring 20 craft beers on tap, 30 more in bottles or cans, and a fantastic selection of bourbon, whiskey, tequila, and scotch, Klazy Jax is a perfect blend of flavors. They're in nearby Mahopac at 925 Route 6, and they open at noon, seven days a week. They close at midnight Sunday through Wednesday and 1 a.m. on Thursday. On Friday and Saturday, they're open until the fun stops. While the craft beer choices change regularly, popular ones include Goose Island IPA, Abita Purple Haze, Cigar City Jai Alai IPA, and Springhouse Blood Turning Black. They serve appetizers, like crispy calamari, a gigantic Bavarian pretzel, grilled shrimp pincho, and glazed chicken wings to get it all started. In addition, Klazy Jax offers an amazing choice of family meals for four, like penne à la vodka, chicken Française, Peruvian Lomo salteado, and chicken piccata. You get a house salad, two homemade empanadas, and two desserts with every family meal. On top of that, they have a slider menu that includes several options, like the Dallas, London, New Orleans, Seoul, Santorini, Sicilia, Nashville, Hamburg, and Istanbul, each with a distinct flavor. They also offer Beyond Sliders, the vegetarian version. Also available are quesadilla and taco choices, including the Oaxaca, Puebla, Itaewon, Maui, and Michoacan. And if that were not enough, homemade empanadas are also available, made fresh, as well as pizzas and burritos. If sandwiches are more your thing, check out the Cajun catfish po'boy, Piggly Wiggly burger, or Cuban-Reuben. Entrees include a 14-ounce T-bone steak with watercress salad and buttermilk onion rings for sides, along with house steak sauce and chimichurri. If you're more in the mood for seafood, go for the Atlantic salmon, which they can prepare pan roasted or grilled with sauteed spinach, along with roasted red pepper fondue and mashed potatoes. Klazy Jax also features many Bayou-inspired dishes, like voodoo chicken, shrimp etouffee, or jambalaya. Klazy Jax has a little bit of something for everyone to enjoy. The Dutchess Biercafe As the name suggests, The Dutchess Biercafe is Belgian-themed and located at 1097 Main St. in nearby Fishkill. Their hours of operation are noon to 8:00 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, noon to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday. Among the tap beers are Bosteels Pauwel Kwak, Allagash White, Dubuisson Peche Mel, Chimay Grand Reserve, Van Steenberge Gulden Draak, and Spencer Russian Imperial Stout. For starters, select from fried cheese curds, pretzel sticks, or even roasted Brussel sprouts. The most popular starter, however, is their poutine, which is french fries and New York cheese curds, drowning in gravy and topped with chives. For the main course, give the Best of the Wurst a shot. This dish consists of weisswurst, bratwurst, and knockwurst, topped with German house mustard, German potato salad, amber ale sauerkraut, and pretzel sticks for a unique taste experience. If burgers are more your thing, try the Angry Burger on a brioche bun with pickled jalapenos, a spicy glaze, crispy onions, coleslaw, cheddar cheese, and topped with chipotle mayonnaise. Other options include a chicken club, a Philly cheesesteak, or chicken and waffles. Finally, The Dutchess offers a variety of preparations of Prince Edward Island mussels, including classic Spanish flavors and red curry. Regardless of what you choose, a baguette comes with every meal. Mill House Brewing Company Another excellent choice in the Carmel area is the Mill House Brewing Company, located in Poughkeepsie at 289 Mill St. Their hours are Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with extended hours on Friday and Saturday until 10 pm. On Sunday, they have a brunch offering from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and remain open until 9 p.m. Their craft beer selections include Hunting Saison, Cucumber Blessings, Grocery Getter, and Winter Bloom. They offer an assortment of appetizers, like Mill House poutine, fried calamari salad, sesame chicken meatballs, and fish tacos. If pizza is your thing, the Mill House has many options, such as bacon, chicken, Korean BBQ pork, and ranch. Classic munchies include fried pickle chips, buffalo wings, and pretzel bites. When you're ready for the main course, try the smothered meatloaf or baked chicken cordon bleu. Another entree option is a tasty half rack of ribs served with coleslaw, cornbread, and shoestring fries. If you're looking for a burger, try the blue bacon mushroom burger topped with blue cheese, mushrooms, bacon, baby arugula, and roasted garlic mayonnaise, all served in a sesame bun with shoestring fries. Schatzi's Pub There's another option in Poughkeepsie at 202 Main St. called Schatzi's Pub. They feature 16 draught lines and have an American and German-inspired menu. Check out Schatzi's on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 3 p.m. until midnight. They open at noon on Saturday and Sunday. Draught lines include Audacity Cold IPA, Low Key Jb, Dogs & Boats, Citraspace Invader, All In, and Cherry Raspberry Pop! Your table can share the appetizers from their menu, like pretzel poutine, frickles, pierogies, or wings. Or maybe while you sip on your favorite microbrew, you'd like to nibble on fish tacos or a brisket. Of course, burgers are also available, with their signature Schatzi's Burger, an 8-ounce burger patty with grilled pork belly, cheddar cheese, a potato pancake, and topped off with Schatzi's sauce in a pretzel bun. Another option is their delicious spicy cheddar bratwurst, served with house-made chili dust and chipotle aioli. You might also want to settle with Schatzi's fish and chips, macaroni and cheese, or their sauerbraten meatballs served with cheesy spaetzle. Our Meadowland of Carmel team hopes you enjoy a draft and some tasty food at one of these four top picks. If you need a new vehicle to get you to these pubs and breweries, stop by and see us at 1962 U.S. Highway 6 in Carmel. We'd be happy to set you up in a motor so you can check out all the pubs and breweries in and around Carmel.

The most awarded SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, is back again for the 2022 model year. Ranking highest in owner loyalty, the Grand Cherokee looks to improve further upon its iconic design with a third-row option. Here are the features that put the award-winning 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee in the spotlight. Momentous Capability Jeep (193 / 365) by somegeekintn is licensed under CC BY 2.0 The all-new Grand Cherokee is built to handle any road or trail you want to tackle. You can customize the capability to suit your needs and budget with three 4x4 systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, with an electronic limited-slip rear differential. Also, you'll find the Selec-Terrain Traction Management System, which allows you to choose from Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow, or Mud/Sand modes with a simple flip of the switch. To provide optimal lift for the environment you find yourself in, and the Quadra-Lift Suspension is there for you. Featuring Electronic Semi-Active Damping, this class-exclusive air suspension will lower the vehicle automatically at highway speeds while offering the capability to raise the vehicle when riding over rough terrain. The best-in-class, 7,200-pound maximum towing capacity of the Grand Cherokee allows you to bring along a boat, trailer, or whatever you need to complete your next adventure. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has three engine options to suit your needs: an efficient daily V-6 engine, an available high-performance V-8 engine, or the exceptionally powerful and fuel-efficient hybrid engine. Trail Rated Trailhawk While all trims and configurations of the Jeep Grand Cherokee are exceptional off-road choices, the penultimate in the lineup is the Trail Rated Trailhawk. To be trail rated, the vehicle has to have competence in five off-road capabilities: ground clearance, traction, articulation, maneuverability, and water fording. There is an 11.3-inch maximum ground clearance, helping you many clear obstacles in your path easily. Of course, traction is paramount to keep moving forward, and with the 4x4 systems available, you'll have all the traction you need. With high-end articulation, the Grand Cherokee is adept at keeping all four tires in contact with the ground. Heading off-road can get you into tight spaces and make maneuverability crucial. With optimized wheelbases and precise steering, the Grand Cherokee can maneuver around obstacles and handle narrow gaps and tight turns. Finally, with exceptional water sealing, higher air intakes, and the innovative Jeep Quadra-Lift Suspension, you can safely traverse water up to 2 feet deep. A Newly Visualized Legend With a tapered roof and newly sculpted exterior, the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee has excellent aerodynamic performance without surrendering interior space. With a complete suite of premium LED lighting available, the picture is full. You can opt for the two-row version, which gives ample cargo space and spacious seating for five or pick the longer Grand Cherokee L, which adds a third-row with multiple configurations to balance cargo and up to seven passengers. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers 21-inch polished aluminum wheels to give it sophistication and support for off-road and city streets. Embrace Your Comfort Zone Slide behind the wheel of the Grand Cherokee, and you are greeted with premium materials, ingenious design, and eloquent craftsmanship. The most luxurious Jeep Grand Cherokee trim, the Summit, is not just the most luxurious Grand Cherokee but the most luxurious vehicle in its class. Starting these luxurious features are the available front massage seats and interior ambient LED lighting, which can set the aura to suit your mood. If you opt for the three-row L version, you can vary the configuration to offer either more cargo room or more passenger room. With all seats, you can comfortably fit up to seven people and still have 17.2 cubic feet of cargo room. Folding down just the third row takes away seating for two but amps up the cargo room to 46.9 cubic feet. Finally, fold down both rows to maximize cargo potential, and now your cargo space is an impressive 84.6 cubic feet. Innovative Technology Abounds You will find state-of-the-art technology across the All-New 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee line. Not only is the Summit the most luxurious in its class, but it also boasts the most standard and available technology features in its class. A first for the Grand Cherokee is the passenger screen, made just for the front seat passenger. They can navigate from the co-pilot seat and send directions to the driver's display. In addition, the upfront passenger can stream content online via Amazon Fire TV, play movies, or listen to your favorite music and podcasts through wireless headphones. Another best in its class is the most available speakers, thanks to the premium McIntosh 19-speaker sound system powered by a 17-channel amplifier putting out up to 950 watts of premium sound to up to 19 speakers a 10-inch subwoofer. This is controlled via the available 10.1-inch UConnect 5 touch-screen infotainment system. For full customization, you can configure the home screen and add up to five user profiles, along with simultaneous dual-phone connectivity. Add the well-known TomTom navigation system option, and your directions will be displayed on the big screen. The head-up display, wireless charging pad, and digital rearview mirror surround round out the fantastic technology features. Drive Confidently for Any Adventure Featuring a whopping 110 standard and available security and safety features, the new and improved Grand Cherokee adds another best-in-class with the most available safety and security features in its class. The latest safety features are highlighted by the available active driving assist and hands-free active driving coming to the lineup later this summer. Included standards on any trim are safety and security features like active lane management, adaptive cruise with stop and go, full-speed forward collision warning with dynamic braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with ParkSense front and rear park assist. In addition to the standard safety and security features, many others are also offered. Among these are the surround-view camera, intersection collision assist, parallel and perpendicular park assist, night vision, drowsy driver detection, and traffic sign recognition. When you're ready to check out the award-winning 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, see our team at Meadowland of Carmel. Call us at 845-704-4245 or complete our convenient online form to get started today.

With summer in full swing, it's the perfect time of year to pack up your picnic basket, grab a blanket, and head out to your favorite picnic spot. Here in Carmel, New York, we are surrounded by beautiful landscapes and a variety of parks, so there are plenty of picnic locations to choose from. To help you out, we at Meadowland of Carmel have put together this list of our six favorite picnic spots near Carmel. Paul A. Camarda Park Picnic by Chloe Lim is licensed with CC BY 2.0 Paul A. Camarda Park is one of the many beautiful parks in or near Carmel where you can settle down for a picnic. This one features 36 acres of natural and human-crafted beauty, including a nature trail for walking and hiking and a playground for the kids, featuring swings, slides, and climbing structures. There's even a dedicated picnic area with room for up to 200 guests. The picnic area includes picnic tables and a pavilion, so you can enjoy an outdoor meal come rain or shine. Paul A. Camarda Park also offers a soccer field, two basketball courts, and 60-foot and 90-foot baseball diamonds. So, bring your favorite workout gear and build up an appetite on the sports field before settling in for your picnic. Ready to visit? You'll find this park at 226 Seminary Hill Road, Carmel. Lake Gleneida Located in Carmel proper, the 168-acre Lake Gleneida offers the perfect backdrop for any picnic. You can choose a spot along the 2.2 miles of shoreline to spread your picnic blanket. The surrounding fields, trees, and rolling hills only add to the serene beauty of this destination. Are you looking for an even more memorable picnic experience? Why not take a rowboat out on the lake? You can snack on sandwiches and sip on sodas as you float around the peaceful waters. Just be sure to register your rowboat with the NYC DEP before you begin. If you also enjoy fishing, you'll be delighted to know Lake Gleneida is the ideal spot. It contains an abundance of trout, pickerel, bass, crappie, perch, and sunfish. All in all, the picnic experience at this beautiful lake has a lot to offer. Fred Dill Wildlife Sanctuary In the heart of Carmel, beside the Carmel High School, you'll find a jewel of a picnic location at the Fred Dill Wildlife Sanctuary. Established in 2004, this wildlife sanctuary and outdoor education center were named after its founder—the businessman and philanthropist Fred Dill. It's the perfect spot to reconnect with nature while snacking on your favorite picnic foods. It has a walking and hiking trail that takes about two and a half hours from one end to the other, so if you're interested in a stroll with the family or a private run before you spread out the picnic blanket, you'll enjoy the Fred Dill Wildlife Sanctuary. While you're at it, keep an eye out for birds, as this is an excellent birding location. There are also ponds, wildlife, trees, flowers, and benches throughout the area, so you have a lot of ways to find the perfect spot for your lunch. Sycamore Bark Park If you have a furry friend who you'd like to include in your picnic plans, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of play areas for dogs at Sycamore Bark Park. This serene dog park is located at 790 Long Pond Road in Mahopac, New York, and covers about half an acre. A number of trees provide ample shade for your picnic. In fact, you can enjoy separate play areas for large and small dogs, play bridges, play tubes, and even a dog water fountain. The park is only accessible to members, so if you'd like to enjoy your picnic here, you can call 845-628-7888. All members are responsible for maintaining a friendly atmosphere and a clean park together. Stonecrop Gardens Stonecrop Gardens offer a beautiful picnic location in Cold Spring, New York, just 20 minutes west of Carmel. What began as a private garden in 1958 is home to ornamental grasses, perennials, bulbs, woodlands, wildflowers, shrubs, vines, alpines, and a beautiful rock garden. These picturesque gardens are open to the public on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A self-guided tour costs $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors. You can also make a reservation to visit on other days, which can be an excellent way to ensure a quiet and peaceful picnic. Croton Gorge Park Croton Gorge Park is located about 30 minutes from Carmel and offers 97 acres of natural beauty. Significant features include the Croton River, a spillway, and the Old Croton Dam, each making a great background for a picnic. Over the dam, you'll find a gorgeous bridge that offers terrific views of the surrounding area. There are plenty of beautiful trails and paths to explore, as well as benches and grassy spots that are picnic perfect. Amenities include parking, picnic tables, swings, and restrooms. You can also enjoy activities like golfing, fishing, and hiking, so there are plenty of exciting things to do before and after you eat your picnic meal. Admission to the park is free, but expect to pay between $5 and $10 for parking. Dogs are allowed on a leash, and all service animals are welcome. We hope your new favorite picnic spot is on this list. Will you need some help getting there? We at Meadowland of Carmel have your back. You can check out our wide array of new and available pre-owned cars and snag your favorite for a great price. If you have any questions or picnicking tips, don't hesitate to reach out to us online or by phone at 855-815-6623, or swing by our dealership for a visit at 1952 E U.S. 6, Carmel Hamlet, NY. We look forward to your visit.